Working With A Builder Your next step is to choose the plan you like and then ask the builders to bid out the project for you. They will go to subcontractors who will provide the builder with estimates on what it will cost to get various portions of your project done. The builder will add up all of the bids, plus the overhead cost, and present you with a final bid. In order to make you feel more comfortable reviewing the bids you receive, refer to our Home Buyer Checklist . Make sure the builders have priced out all of the items on the checklist in order to reduce your chance of surprise fees later down the road. You should also pay close attention to the quality of the structural supplies the builder plans to use. Will your home be framed with wood? Is the glass for the windows thick enough for the climate in which you live? The last thing you should compromise on is the structure of your home. It will only cost you more money in the long run. An area you may consider cutting back on is the finishes you choose for your home. These are such things as the cabinets in your kitchen or your flooring choices. Once you have reviewed your various bids, it is time to settle on a builder. Make sure you and your builder set regular meeting times and make sure to check in on your project as frequently as possible. Generally speaking, the more involved you are, the more likely you will end up with the home of your dreams.